Thailand to receive 13 more second-hand KiHa 100 trains from Japan

Bangkok, 8 November 2026 — The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has announced it will receive 13 more second-hand KiHa 100 diesel railcars from Japan, not as a replacement for Thailand's domestic railway manufacturing industry, but to make optimal use of available resources and enhance services. The SRT stated that the initiative aims to optimize value for money, improve passenger services, bolster engineering and maintenance personnel, and promote railway tourism.

Previous second-hand train transfers from Japan have included models such as the KiHa 183 and KiHa 40/48. The upcoming 13 KiHa 100 railcars are expected to undergo refurbishment and upgrades before becoming operational. The SRT envisions these additional trains providing passengers with more travel options and aiding regional tourism development.

Through receiving and refurbishing these trains, Thailand's railway engineering expertise, particularly in diesel railcar technology, will be strengthened. Engineers and technicians will gain practical experience and technical skills while exchanging knowledge with relevant organizations. This experience is expected to contribute to long-term railway maintenance capabilities development.

Although Thailand remains committed to developing its domestic railway industry via a Local Content policy, the SRT views the Japanese trains as a short-term solution to bolster passenger services and tourism. The country plans to expand its domestic railway manufacturing capabilities, working with local manufacturers and industrial operators to strengthen train design, component manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance.